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In Hiroshima, Japan’s leading oyster-producing prefecture, 80% to 90% of farmed oysters have died by the time they are harvested since the beginning of this season’s distribution in mid-October.

When oysters perish, their shells open up and the meat inside is expelled, leading to a collection of mostly empty shells. Although the percentage of impacted oysters varies by region, areas that collect from the Seto Inland Sea in western Japan, such as Okayama, Hyogo, Tokushima, Kagawa, and Ehime prefectures, are experiencing losses. The Mainichi Shimbun provides quick responses to some questions readers might have regarding this year’s oyster farming.

Question: Why are a large number of oysters perishing?

Answer: The Hiroshima Prefectural Fisheries and Marine Technology Center holds the view that the exceptional heat and reduced rainfall this year led to oysters becoming vulnerable due to extended exposure to elevated water temperatures and increased salinity. Another specialist proposes that climatic factors, such as wind direction, caused oxygen-poor water from the ocean floor to rise into regions where oysters are cultivated, resulting in a lack of oxygen for the oysters.

Q: What impacts is the current scenario causing?

A: Numerous regions have called off oyster-themed festivals. Certain local governments that previously provided raw oysters as tokens for “hometown tax” contributions have ceased doing so. According to a survey conducted by the Hiroshima branch of Tokyo Shoko Research Ltd., the effect on aquaculture and associated businesses located in Hiroshima Prefecture is projected to amount to 3 billion yen (approximately $193 million).

Q: This must be challenging for those in the industry, correct?

A: This season, income is anticipated to be low, and obtaining financial resources is difficult. As oysters require two to three years to mature in the sea before being shipped, those intended for next year’s delivery have already been impacted. Agriculture Minister Norikazu Suzuki visited aquaculture areas in Hiroshima in mid-November, mentioning that the reason will be examined and he will explore ways to provide management assistance. Producers are urging individuals to eat oysters with the mindset of supporting the producing regions.

(Japanese original by Chinami Takeichi, Hiroshima Bureau)